· Timahoe North Solar Farm is part of a co-development agreement between ESB and BnM to develop a significant solar portfolio across the Midlands contributing to Ireland’s energy independence

14 August 2026

Timahoe North Solar Farm T/A Sundew Solar DAC is pleased to announce that 34 community organisations and five scholars have been awarded a combined €135,300 under the first year of the Timahoe North Solar Farm Community Benefit Fund.  

The fund supports community, non-profit and voluntary groups, as well as organisations with charitable status operating within 10km of Timahoe North Solar Farm. The funding will enable a broad range of local initiatives and projects to be delivered, benefitting communities across the region through investments in biodiversity, environmental sustainability, recreation, social inclusion, culture and heritage, tourism and education. 

Among the recipients are Johnstown Bridge Men's Shed, which will install accessible picnic benches; Timahoe National School Parents' Association, which is developing a sensory garden and purchasing athletics singlets for students; Timahoe Active Age Group, which will deliver a digital skills and online support programme; and Enfield Celtic FC, which is progressing the installation of solar panels. 

The Community Benefit Fund is administered by SECAD Partnership CLG and financed through an annual contribution of €2/MWh generated by Timahoe North Solar Farm. It will continue for the duration of the project's 15-year RESS contract, creating a long-term investment in local communities. 

Marking the announcement, Benedicta Durcan, Corporate Social Responsibility Manager at BnM, said: “The Timahoe North Community Benefit Fund reflects our commitment to ensuring that renewable energy developments create lasting social, economic, and environmental benefits for the communities in which they are located. We are delighted to announce this year’s recipients recognising the important work being delivered by local organisations, volunteers and community groups across the area. We would like to thank all groups who took the time to apply and acknowledge the important work being carried out by community organisations throughout the region. BnM is proud to continue working alongside local communities as we deliver renewable energy infrastructure that supports both Ireland’s climate ambitions and regional development.” 

Nuala Moloney, ESB Community Relations Manager, commented: "At ESB, we are committed to building strong and lasting relationships with the communities where we operate. We are delighted to see the first year of the Timahoe North Solar Farm Community Benefit Fund deliver meaningful support to 34 local organisations and five scholars. These groups are at the heart of their communities and make a significant contribution to local life. Through this fund, we are proud to support projects that will leave a positive and lasting legacy while ensuring that the benefits of Ireland's energy transition are felt at a local level." 

Since opening for applications earlier this year, the fund has attracted strong interest from local organisations. Applications for the next funding round are expected to open in early next year with further details to be announced by SECAD Partnership CLG and the project partners. 

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